‘Family Guy’ Opening Credits: Brian’s Out, Vinny’s In

The first episode since the controversial death of the Griffins’ beloved pet, this week’s Family Guy opened with the familiar scene of Peter and Lois playing the show’s theme song in their living room, a la All In The Family. But when the rest of the Griffins — Chris, Meg and Stewie — entered the frame, dressed in their trademark gold tuxedos, they had a surprise fourth companion: the family’s new dog, Vinny!

Voiced by Sopranos actor Tony Sirico, Vinny was adopted by the Griffins to fill the void left by their deceased pet — and apparently to steal his part in the theme song, too. I’m hoping, more than ever, that Brian makes a Christmas comeback and puts this new guy in his place.

You don’t just get that singing part in the theme song; you’ve got to earn it.

Brian Griffin Returning To ‘Family Guy’ On Christmas Episode?

Of course, despite Brian’s apparent death — and his even-more-tragic replacement in the opening credits — there’s still hope for the lovable little atheist.

The Dec. 15 Christmas episode’s official description suggests that he could be returning:

Stewie devises a master plan to get the one and only thing he wants for Christmas.

Further proof? At least one future episode in season 12 includes Brian’s name in the title, so unless a new Brian mysteriously enters the picture, I’m thinking we haven’t seen the last of his snout.

HollywoodLifers, are you mad that Vinny replaced Brian in the opening credits? Drop a comment with your thoughts below.